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Barcode On A White Box

Setting the Bar High: Managing Your Barcodes

Every business needs an inventory management system. For most people, that means barcodes. For small industries and large corporations alike, understanding your inventory is the backbone of your business. So, do you have everything you need to manage your barcodes? Let’s find out.

Understand the Basics
What’s the right barcode for your business? If you only do business in the US, UK, Canada or Australia, then you’ll most likely have a variation of a UPC barcode (universal product code). UPC-A and UPC-E are the most common. UPC-A contains 12 numbers and is for standard products while UPC-E has 6 numbers and is used for smaller products.

If you do business in Europe, Asia, Africa or Latin America, you’ll want to use EAN barcodes. There are EAN-13 barcodes (which contain 13 numbers) and EAN-8 (which contain 8 numbers). There are various rules and regulations for each type so it’s important to learn and understand what the numbers behind your barcode mean. Then, teach it to your employees so they have a better understanding of their stock.

Have the Supplies
To optimize barcode use in your business, you’ll need:

Besides the software, the materials are generally affordable and easy to order.

Barcode Software
Unlike the tools, finding the right barcode software can be a little more tricky. A business pro probably already has a system implemented, but what if you’re new to the game? When shopping around, look for a system that:

  • Is compatible with your current business software
  • Is specific to your type of barcode
  • Works for the size of your business and its products

Check out an updated list of the best barcode systems, and for supplies, you can count on Team One. We have the tools needed to optimize your POS for better leads and for better business. When thinking business, think Team One.